Phil Stacey Sings at National Gathering of United Methodist Men a Letter from the General Secretary

Volume 16 • Number 4 Fall 2013

The magazine of United Methodist Men

Phil Stacey sings at National Gathering of United Methodist Men A letter from the General Secretary

he 11th National Gathering was a wonderful blessing. Several of the articles in Tthis issue are a reflection of that excit- ing event. As we have learned from Man in the Mirror, any event like the gathering requires “the next right steps” if it is to be transformational. For that reason, suggestions for the “next right steps” were included in the program book. The team that put this event together wanted this to be more than a “great event.” They wanted it to create a posi- tive change in you, and in your church. As disciples of Jesus Christ we are to make or reproduce more disciples; that is our core function. When we are judged by God, I believe the single question asked will be, “Who did you bring to Me?” For those who were not able to attend the gathering, the live streaming has been turned into nicely edited DVDs, which are available through the commission. Also included in this issue are articles from church leaders that will encourage you Thank you. Know that your work contin- to become an active participant in disciple ues to bless many people. making. There are reports about men’s minis- We continue to assess how we are serv- try and scouting that contain great ideas you ing you, so don’t be surprised if you get an may want to replicate. And there is a report email asking about men’s ministry and scout- from the other big event in July, the National ing ministry in your local church and your ex- Scout Jamboree, which was another special pectations of the commission. Those surveys blessing. are very helpful so please let us know how Both the gathering and the jamboree we are doing. They are also available on our required a great deal of staff time and imagi- website. Stay in touch, and please continue nation. I want to thank our Nashville staff and to be a blessing to all you meet. the deployed staff, but also want to include dozens of volunteers who made these events Striving to be His servant,- work. Events like these would be impossible, boring and expensive without the many volunteers who shared their talents and Gilbert C. Hanke other resources. General Secretary

United Methodist Men exists to declare the centrality of Christ in every man’s life. contents

Vol. 16, No. 4 Fall 2013 UM Men Fall 2013

UMMen magazine is published 5 Transformation is possible four times a year, winter, spring, summer and fall by GCUMM: 6 Beome like the mighty men of David General Commission on United Methodist Men 1000 17th Ave. S. 7 We’’re dead if we don’t minister to Nashville, TN 37212 the millennials (615) 340-7145 Internet address: http://www.gcumm.org 8 Men take sponges home 10 National Gathering Publisher: Gilbert C. Hanke Editor: Richard Peck 13 Devotional book presented to 1,300 Contributing Editor: Larry Coppock police officers Editorial Assistants: Martha Davis 16 Who’s your hero? Nan Self 18 Committee releases Boy Scout edition of Graphic Design: Parris Printing Change of Address: book for first responders Send the mailing label with your new address to: 20 Blind Sea Scout speaks at laity banquet UMMen 1000 17th Ave. S. 23 Men minister to recovering men Nashville, TN 37212 at Freedom Farm (615) 340-7145 Allow six weeks for changes. 26 Across the Nation

Advertising: Contact Richard Peck 1000 17th Ave. S. Nashville, TN 37212 (615) 620-7264 31 MENS NEWS e-mail: [email protected] 37 SCOUTING NEWS Advertisements in UMMen do not constitute endorsement by UMMen, General Commission on United Methodist Men or The United Methodist Church. Advertisers and their agencies assume Cover Photo: liability for all content of advertisements printed or Phil Stacey sings “From the Inside Out” during the representations made therein. 11th National Gathering. Subscription: Subscriptions are $25 a year (4 issues). Bulk subscriptions available. Send check or money order to: UMMen Subscription Fulfillment PO Box 440515 Editor’s note: This magazine includes Nashville, TN 37244-0515 articles from individuals who hold diverse (615) 340-7145 opinions. We hope all articles are thought Unless otherwise indicated, all Scripture provoking; they are not necessarily the contained herein is from The New Revised Standard Version. Copyright 1989, 1995. opinions of the General Commission on Used by permission. All rights reserved. UM Men.

UM MEN | Fall 2013 | 3 he 11th portive shout outs, hugs, and respon- National sive trips down the aisles. TGather- We were blessed by the singing of ing is now Phil Stacey. I understand why he was history, but an American Idol finalist, but I can’t it’s fun to imagine why he wasn’t the winner. use some of He was joined by talented organist the pages of Richard Algeria and his son, choir this maga- director Andrew Algeria. from the editor from zine to relive I was also immensely impressed by some stirring the enthusiastic way men assembled speeches and heart-pounding singing scores of hand-crank carts, packaged from that July event. 17,000 meals for Stop Hunger Now, I spent the first hours of the and bagged 25,000 pounds of sweet three-day event coordinating the first potatoes for local food pantries. Nearly basketball tournament where I was everyone at the gathering pitched in to staggered by the skill of teenage boys assist one of the three mission projects. from Alexandria, La., and Baltimore, It seemed everyone was reluctant Md. If a college scout had been in the to leave the Curb Event Center after gym, he would have been conducting the concluding Sunday morning Com- a lot of interviews. They were exchang- munion service. The men would be ing three-point shots like they were taking new discernments back to their lay-ups. communities, but they were in no hurry I then joined some 200 men at to leave the location where they had a workshop on men’s ministry where made new friends and scaled some even the most experienced men’s min- lofty spiritual peaks. istry specialist would come away with This was only my third national gather- some new understandings. ing (I know veterans who have attend- Thanks to careful planning by the ed 10 or more of these quadrennial staff of the General Commission on events), but in my limited experience, UM Men and the support of coop- this event seemed to mark a new erative volunteers, most participants level of spiritual maturity. Participants quickly registered, found their dor- seemed hungry for new ways to reach mitories and their workshop rooms. I millennials, and they thoughtfully took wish there were a way for the assembly advantage of opportunities to increase to applaud those caring behind-the- their understanding of––and relation scenes workers. with––Jesus the Christ. I was enormously impressed with I doubt that I’ll be working for the presentation styles and content of the General Commission on UM Men the featured speakers. If you expected in four years, but if I am still a guest stilted speeches behind a pulpit, you on this planet I will attend the next would have been disappointed. The national gathering. men responded with applause, sup- Rich Peck

4 l Fall 2013 l UM MEN The 11th National Gathering of United Methodist Men Belmont University, Nashville, Tenn. July 12-14, 2013

Bishop James Swanson, president of the General Commission on United Methodist Men, consecrates the elements during a closing worship service at the 11th National Gathering. Transformation is possible — Bishop James Swanson NASHVILE, Tenn.–– the Inside Out, words from a song performed “Peter shows us transformation is possible.” by Phil Stacey, one of five finalists on season six of the American Idol television show and hat’s what Bishop James Swanson told the featured singer at the Belmont University people attending the Saturday evening event. session of the July 12-14 National Gath- T “I believe men have a deep yearning to ering of United Methodist Men. become different from the ones they currently Noting how Peter moved from a man who are,” said Swanson. “That desire needs to denied knowing Jesus to become a man who become performance.” He urged the men to proclaimed the gospel on Pentecost, Bishop “be bold enough to demand that your journey Swanson said, “I’ve seen men do terrible in the church will be bold. things at one time and wonderful things at “I may not always do it right. I’m a man another.” and it takes me a while to get it right. You Swanson, who also serves as president of have to quit trying to figure it out for yourself. the General Commission on United Methodist The church is of God, not of us. Men, urged the men to recover John Wes- “Give it to God and God will add what is ley’s third word of grace. Wesley spoke about missing.” “prevenient grace,” “justifying grace,” and “We can do more than build handicap “sanctifying grace.” ramps; we can also do spiritual things.” “I expect growth and development and Noting how God can touch men, the maturity out of you,” he said. “Even while God bishop said, “Sometimes instead of going to is transforming us, God still gives us power.” worship, the worship gets you,” and he re- Noting that sanctifying grace begins with minded the pastors of the times when “instead recognition that something is wrong with us, of giving a sermon, the sermon gets them.” Swanson said that after that recognition, “God “We’re going to become mighty men of can change you from the ‘inside out’.” Christ,” the bishop concluded. The theme of the conference was “From

UM MEN | Fall 2013 | 5 Become like the mighty men of David — The Rev. Shane Bishop NASHVILLE, Tenn.–– “Men don’t become great because they United Methodist pastor urged some expect God to do what God expects men to 800 persons attending National Gath- do. Stop waiting on your preacher. Get off Aering of United Methodist Men to the sidelines and change the world.” become like the mighty men of David. “I see pockets of life and vitality in The Rev. Shane Bishop, pastor of Christ United Methodist Men,” said Bishop, who UMC in Fairview Heights, Ill, told the July 12- led a congregation whose membership grew 14 quadrennial meeting about three mighty from 200 to 1,700. men who helped David extend his kingship. “We’re not always going to get it right. The first man was Jashobeam who killed Stop trying to be perfect. If we do nothing, 800 men in one battle. we leave God with nothing to bless. God The second was Eleazar who stood with will change the trajectory of the spear if He David against the Philistines when the rest can find someone to throw it. of his troops retreated. He struck down the “Don’t die having never lived.” Philistines till his hand grew tired and froze Bishop ended the presentation with an to the sword. invitation for the men to get out of their The third mighty man was Shammah chairs and tell the Lord that they will return who defended the land, struck the Philistines to their homes to “let the spirit fly.” down, and brought a great victory to David. “Why do I have to move?” he asked. “These three were the best of the best,” “Because Methodists haven’t moved in a said Bishop. long time,” he answered. “What might it mean to be the mighty Hundreds of United Methodist men men of the United Methodist Church?” came forward to acknowledge their call to asked Bishop. “What if we decided to build God’s service. the Kingdom of God or die trying?”

The Rev. Shane Bishop

6 l Fall 2013 l UM MEN Don Davis

We’re dead if we don’t minister to the millennials — Don Davis NASHVILLE, Tenn.— “Who are you, Lord? “What do you want “UM Men need to find a way to minister to me to do?” the 80 million millennials.” Ananias, the man who accompanied blinded Saul, told him to 1) know the will of hat’s what Don Davis, a former NFL God; 2) see the righteous one, 3) hear his football star now serving as a chap- voice; and 4) become his witness. Tlain to the New England Patriots told “What are you waiting for?” Ananias 800 attendees at the National Gathering of asked Saul. United Methodist Men. “What are you waiting for,” Davis asked “This is the laziest generation in United Methodist men. “”We have to minis- history,” Davis said. ter to 80 million millennials.” “Guess who made them that way.” Davis, the father of two, recalled how “Look to your left; look to your right; one of his teenage daughters stamped her look behind you; look ahead of you,” said way into her bedroom and locked the door Davis. “If they all look like you, you’re going when she learned her father would only to die.” give her $200 for her high school prom. He In prescribing ways to minister to said, millennials respond in a similar manner people born between 1982 and 2004, the to church teachings, and we won’t reach former University of Kansas player, suggest- them with words alone. He urged the men ed men look at questions Saul asked after to pray for the millennials and win them to being blinded on the Road to Damascus: Christ with “contagious compassion.”

UM MEN | Fall 2013 | 7 Men take sponges home

David Delk, president of Man in the Mirror.

NASHVILLE, Tenn. –– about God to be disappointed,” Delk eople attending the National Gath- told men gathered at Belmont Univer- ering of United Methodist Men sity. He said too many men depend on Pleft the Belmont University Curb their own religiosity and moral actions, Event Center with half-inch sponges in but if they are not connected to Jesus, their pockets. they have no transformational power. The tiny squares were given to them “The power of Jesus Christ can by David Delk, president of Man in the transform you ‘from the inside out’.” Mirror ministries, based in Orlando, Fla. Delk recalled an experience as an In the final Sunday morning wor- elementary school patrol leader who ship service, Delk told the assembly that helped schoolmates cross the street. A sponges can be wet or dry. bully intimidated him by knocking his A dry sponge soaks up moisture and books off a nearby post. a wet one provides water. “If you write me up, I’ll beat you Some men are like dry sponges. up,” said the bully. Others are saturated with the water of Delk wrote him up. the Gospel, and they provide water to When he later told his mother about anyone who touches them. his lack of enthusiasm about being beat He encouraged men to keep the up, she suggested Delk’s older brother sponges as reminders of their need to could stand nearby on the following day. stay connected to Jesus, because “when Delk confidently returned to his post you take a sponge out of the water it knowing his big brother had his back. starts to dry out.” “We also don’t have to be worried “Most men know just enough about being bullied because Jesus Christ

8 l Fall 2013 l UM MEN has our back,” said Delk. not wait. He suggested some might “I want Jesus to be magnified want to become officers in United because of what he does in and through Methodist Men; others might want to my life,” he said. “Nothing can stand become full-time pastors. against His church and His people.” “If you don’t pursue it now, it will In thinking about possible actions start to fade,” he said. when men return to their homes, Delk Sponges from Nashville may serve as advised them to act immediately and reminders.

David Delk demonstrates how a dry sponge soaks up moisture and a wet one provides water. – photo by Gil Hanke.

UM MEN | Fall 2013 | 9 Following the Saturday morning session, the men walked two blocks to a Sport Science building to package food for Stop Hunger Now and to build PET (personal energy transportation) hand-driven carts for persons in Third World countries who have lost the ability to walk. Food packaging is on the left and cart building is on the right.

Participants in the national gathering packaged 17,000 Stop Hunger Now meals of dehydrated food for emergency situations around the world.

10 l Fall 2013 l UM MEN Men bagged 25,000 pounds of sweet potatoes in 90 minutes during the National Gathering. The potatoes were delivered or picked up by area food banks.

UM Men build hand-driven carts

UM MEN | Fall 2013 | 11 Andrew (left) and Richard Alegria take a break from their duties as music leaders of the national gathering. This was the 8th national gathering at which Richard played the organist and piano, and the first time his son, Andrew, joined him as director of the men’s chorus.

A men’s chorus, under the director of Andrew Alegria, sang at the Saturday evening session and the Sunday morning worship service.

12 l Fall 2013 l UM MEN Dave Belt, president of Minnesota UM Men, operates the prayer line during the national gathering. Men answered the Upper Room Prayer Line on Friday afternoon and all day Saturday.

Players vie for a rebound during a July 12 basketball game during the Belmont University tournament.

A team from Alexandria, La., won first place in the first basketball tournament sponsored by UM Men; A team from Baltimore, Md., finished a close second. The teams were tied with one-minute to play in the 24-minute game.

UM MEN | Fall 2013 | 13 Phil Stacey, one of the top five finalists on season six of the American Idol television show, performs in concert on Saturday evening. He also led congregational singing during the gathering. “From the Inside Out,” the theme of the three-day gathering comes from one of Stacey’s hit songs. The song is a prayer for Christ to change us from the inside out.

Special thanks to sponsors of the 11th National Gathering

Man in the Mirror

Boy Scouts of America

Grayline

United Methodist Church Foundation of the Texas Annual Conference

Embassy Suites Vanderbilt

Logos Bible Software

Hilton Garden Inn Men crowd into Vince Gil Room at the Curb Event Center of Belmont University for men’s Heartspring Methodist ministry leader training. Greg Arnold, Foundation a deployed staff member of the General Commission on UM Men, spoke about “the power of the third question.” He noted that UMC Market all skilled interviewers ask two softball questions: “How you doing?” “How’s work?” Oklahoma United They then ask the real question: How are you, Methodist Foundation really? or “Where are you?:” Most men want to tell you how they are doing, but no one is asking,” said Arnold

14 l Fall 2013 l UM MEN Devotional books presented to 1,300 police officers NASHVILLE, Tenn.–– he Rev. Fred Dettwiller, an Epis- copal priest, provided the funds Tfor 1,300 copies of Strength for Service to God and Community to be given to Nashville police officers. On June 28, Gil Hanke, top staff executive of the General Commission on UM Men, and Larry Coppock, a commission staff executive responsible for the publishing effort, accompanied From left: Gil Hanke and Larry Coppock join Father Fred to a meeting at the North Father Fred Dettwiller in a presentation of Precinct where they gave copies of the Strength for Service books to Steve book of daily devotions to first respond- Anderson, chief of Davidson County Police, ers to the top 100 officers. during a June meeting of Nashville The books, with the notation police officers. “Courtesy of Father Fred,” were later presented to an additional 1,200 police Heim of Dettwiller Distributing for facili- personnel. tating the invitation to the meeting of “We offer our utmost appreciation police leaders,” said Coppock. to Father Fred for the gift and Steve

UM MEN | Fall 2013 | 15 Who’s Your Hero? By The Rev. James A. Harnish

ho’s your hero? We all need Start every day with a prayer like them. As men whose primary that and it could change the way we Wcommitment is to Jesus Christ, live! we need other men to show us what the life of discipleship looks like. Our No perfect hero heroes don’t need to be famous. They But none of our human heroes are might be family members, coworkers or perfect. They are just as human, just as friends. Or they might be men who are prone to error, just as capable of doing remembered as saints in the long history the wrong thing in the right way or of the Church. doing the right thing in the wrong way “Saint” could be another name for as any of the rest of us. Even saints can a spiritual hero – a real person who lived make mistakes. in a way that shows us what it look like For example, John Wesley, the to be a follower of Jesus Christ. number one hero of Methodism, turned I was drawn to St. Bernard of Clair- out to be a very poor husband. It vaux (1090-1153) through his prayers probably would have been better if he and poems, one of which still appears in had followed St. Paul’s admonition to “The United Methodist Hymnal.” remain single. As a loyal subject of King George, he never understood the revo- Jesus, the very thought of Thee lution that gave birth to the Methodist With sweetness fills the breast; Episcopal Church in America. But sweeter far Thy face to see, Bernard of Clairvaux was caught And in Thy presence rest. up in the political power struggles that broiled around the European empires Nor voice can sing, nor heart can frame, of the 12th century. His powerful Nor can the memory find preaching became the inspiration for A sweeter sound than Thy blest Name, the Second Crusade (1146-1149). It O Savior of mankind! was a colossal failure. It accomplished nothing. Many of the crusaders died of O hope of every contrite heart, disease and starvation before reaching O joy of all the meek, their destination. Most of the rest were To those who fall, how kind Thou art! either killed or captured soon after their How good to those who seek! arrival. Even worse, the Crusades ignited the fires of anti-Semitism in Germany But what to those who find? Ah, this and fertilized the roots of the tension Nor tongue nor pen can show; between Christianity and Islam which The love of Jesus, what it is, continues to plague us today. None but His loved ones know. The impact on Bernard was devas- tating. He wrote an apology to the Pope Jesus, our only joy be Thou, and tried to disassociate himself from As Thou our prize will be; the Crusade, but he could not escape Jesus be Thou our glory now, the role he played in launching it. And through eternity. Bernard’s story leaves me asking some difficult questions.

16 l Fall 2013 l UM MEN How could he be so right about always loses. Jesus and so wrong about the Crusade? One of my contemporary heroes is How could he be so deeply centered Peter Storey, who led the Methodists in the love of Jesus and at the same of South Africa in the struggle against time become the driving force behind so Apartheid. You can read his witness much slaughter and death? in his book, With God in the Crucible. Why did he allow his passion for Across the 25 years that I have known Christ to get tangled up with the politi- him, Peter has consistently modeled a cal powers of the European empires? way of discipleship that confronts the What caused a man who was so de- political and social powers of the world voted to the Prince of Peace to become while not being co-opted by them; a an advocate for violence and war? loyalty to the Kingdom of God that Bernard demonstrates for me the transcends loyalty to any nation; a way complex tension Jesus described when of witness in which the cross always he said, “Render to Caesar the things takes priority over the flag; and a way of that are Caesar’s, and to God the things life that is unmistakably centered in the that are God’s.” (Mark 12:17) words, will and way of Jesus. As followers of Christ we cannot Our witness as men who are escape our responsibility to represent disciples of Jesus Christ often revolves the values of the Kingdom of God in the around two questions. Who are our cultural and political systems in which heroes? And what kind of hero will we we live. We are called to speak God’s be for someone else? prophetic word of judgment and grace rooted in the biblical vision of justice, The Rev. Jim Harnish is compassion and peace. senior pastor of Hyde Park UMC in Tampa, Don’t cozy up to political party Fla. He is the author The problem comes when we, of A Disciple’s Path like Bernard, cozy up too closely with and other resources political powers and start believing that for discipleship in the any nation, party or political system is Wesleyan tradition. He a direct expression of the Kingdom of enjoys playing with his grandchildren God. Bernard reminds us that whenever and cheering for the University of Florida the Church gets too closely aligned with Gator football team. Caesar, Caesar always wins and the faith

THE VEGETARIAN SEER

A seer in India believed that being Third, the combination of diet and a strict vegetarian and walking bare- walking made him very weak. foot everywhere he traveled was the All three problems bothered him key to enlightenment. greatly. Unfortunately, this presented him In fact, he was with three problems. known all over India First, the vegetarian diet gave him as the super calloused extremely bad breath. fragile mystic vexed by Second, the long walks with no halitosis. shoes severely hardened the bottom of his feet. UM MEN | Fall 2013 | 17 Committee releases Boy Scout edition of book for first responders

NASHVILLE, Tenn.–– he Strength for Service Committee has released a Boy Scout edition of TStrength for Service to God and Com- munity, a book of daily devotions for police officers, firefighters, EMT personnel and other first responders. The first 1,400 copies were given to Scouts attending the July 15-24 National Jamboree at the Summit Bechtel Family National Scout Reserve in West Virginia. An additional 10,000 copies will available for Scouts attending the Latimer High Adventure Reservation in Tennessee, courtesy of Bill and Carol Latimer. A 2007 gift of the Latimers, the Scout reservation is now owned and operated by the Middle Tennessee Council of the Boy Scouts of America.

Reasons for a Scout edition Dr. Robert Lee Edmonds, founder and nity are daily reminders to each Scout of his chief executive officer of Eight Eleven Press, responsibility to be in service to his commu- says it is appropriate to have a Scout version nity and those in need.” of the book for first responders. Eight Eleven Press, a division of the “The Boy Scout motto, ‘Be Prepared,’ Edmonds Publishing & Media Group, leads is every Scout’s call to always be ready to advertising, printing and distribution efforts do the best for themselves and their homes for the book targeted at first responders. and communities,” says Edmonds. “Follow- ing this scouting maxim builds each mind Eagle Firefighters and body with the strength, understanding, Lou Paulson, president of California and desire to do what is necessary and right Professional Firefighters, found some 5 per- at the right time.” cent of firefighters in his district are Eagle Edmonds, the author of In Our Own Scouts. Way, Living a Scouting Life through Faith, “It shouldn’t be a surprise that so many says, “Affirming God’s role in everyday Eagle Scouts pursue careers in emergency life inspires Scouts to make sound moral services,” said Paulson. “Part of it is helping decisions and dutifully deal with difficult other people at all times; part of it is the situations.” learning we got in scouting on emergency An Eagle Scout, Dr. Edmonds notes preparedness and first aid and all those that scouting is grounded in the duty to things. It just seems like a natural fit.” help others at all times. “The prayers in Paulson led an effort to get Eagle Strength for Service to God and Commu- Scouts now serving as firefighters to be-

18 l Fall 2013 l UM MEN come merit badge counselors or unit-level Merit badges include: First Aid, volunteers. A decal on their helmets identi- Emergency Preparedness, Lifesaving, Wilder- fies the firefighters as Eagle Scouts. ness Survival, Fire Safety, Traffic Safety, Public Of course, there are thousands of ad- Health and Safety. Related badges include ditional firefighters who were Scouts, but Communications and Personal Fitness. A did not attain the rank of Eagle. As Scouts, Search and Rescue merit badge will be avail- these firefighters still learned about first aid able in 2014. and life-saving measures. New organization Merit badges Since the books are addressed to men While we associate first responders with and women of all Christian denominations, professional firefighters, police officer or the commission has formed a non-denomina- EMT personnel, average citizens are fre- tional Strength for Service Board to continue quently cast in the role of first responders. publishing and distributing both books, and “Boy Scouts could be categorized as the committee has applied for non-profit, ‘first responders in training’,” said Larry Cop- 501(c)(3), status. L.W. Smith, a South Carolina pock, director of the Strength for Service, layman who led efforts to distribute the first Inc. Fund. volume, is serving as chairman of the effort to “There exists an array of merit badges form the new organization. that present opportunities for Boy Scouts, To support financially the min- Varsity Scouts and Venturers to learn about istry, visit the donation section of how to conduct themselves and respond in www.strengthforservice.org or call emergency situations,” said Coppock. 615-340-7145 for information. Blind Sea Scout speaks at conference laity banquet MOBILE, Ala.–– give back to them.” agle Scout Tripp Gulledge, 16, The first few hours into the December stirred up a passion for Scouting project, Tripp worked alone as he ripped Eamong persons attending a laity out decaying boards. banquet during the June, 2013, Alabama- “I had some seriously sore arms and West Florida Annual Conference. legs and a really bad back,” said Tripp. The fact that Tripp is blind has not “The idea of the project is that the Eagle stopped him from obtaining the rank of Scout candidate has to raise all the funds Eagle, an achievement attained by only and supervise and take part. But your job 2 percent of Boy Scouts. To achieve that is mainly to be the project manager and rank, Tripp had to earn at least 21 merit make sure it all gets done. It took me that badges, demonstrate the Scout spirit and first work day to understand that.” complete an extensive service project. Tripp recruited 20 volunteers from his ship, Power Squadron members, and Eagle project his home troop, Troop 227 chartered to Tripp’s Eagle project was to re-deck Dauphin Way United Methodist Church, a 110-foot pier for the Mobile Sail and to assist in the project. The Scouts put in Power Squadron, an organization that of- a combined 350 man/hours tearing out fers boater education to the public. boards and replacing them with new, A member of Sea Scout Ship Mobile pressure treated 2-by-6 inch planks. They Bay, chartered to Government Street also cleared away brush and added two UMC in Mobile, AL, Tripp said, “The ramps. Power Squadron has done a lot to help with our Sea Scout Ship, and I wanted to Scouting deepens spiritual life Tripp explained to the laity banquet how Scouting has deepened his relationship with God and provided him the opportunity to provide spiritual leadership to his peers, first as the troop’s Chaplain’s Aide. In the role of Senior Patrol Leader for his troop and as Boatswain for his ship, Tripp explained that he reinforced the habits of grace at meal times and the expectation of Scout-led worship during campouts. “Not everybody grows up par- ticipating in worship regularly or knowing how to give thanks.” he discovered. “Ev- ery Scout has a duty to God and I began to realize that I have an opportunity to set an example for others to follow.” One of the scriptural passages that serves as a spiritual compass for Tripp’s Tripp’s completed Eagle project provides safer family is John 9:1-3, the passage in which footing for people using the 110-foot pier for Jesus says a man was born blind in order the Mobile Sail and Power Squadron. that God’s mighty works might be dis- played in him. 20 l Fall 2013 l UM MEN “We have been blessed during Tripp’s years of blindness and we have the expectation that further blessings await after he experiences healing and a visual acuity that is beyond medical expectation,” said the Rev. Rob Gulledge, Tripp’s dad and the pastor of Government Street UMC in Mobile. Both Tripp and Rob attended the July 2013 Na- tional Scout Jamboree in West Virginia where Rob served on the Sea Scout exhibit staff and Tripp was a patrol leader for his local contingent. In 2010, they attended the last jamboree at Fort AP Hill in Virginia. “Our tiny downtown congregation is doing the impossible,” said Rob. “For more than 11 years, we have sponsored a Sea Scout Ship to serve area youth. Over the years we have seen a blending of scouts from affluent backgrounds with those from the inner city.” He describes these bonds of friendship as remarkable. “We began with nothing but we’ve discovered every imaginable resource for teaching citizenship, seamanship, and duty to God along the way.” The congregation responded to a new “problem” when several Sea Scouts expressed interest in forming a new Boy Scout troop in order to pursue the Eagle award. The boys stirred up interest among their non-scout friends too. In May, Troop 122 was chartered with about eight boys, ages14, and 15, well past the usual age for joining a troop.

Eagle Court of Honor Tripp’s Eagle Court of Honor was held last May in Government Street UMC. His great uncle, Brig. Gen. Inge Waddle, U.S.A.R. (ret.), presented Tripp with a flag that had flown over the U.S. Capitol. “We have watched proudly as you have moved from one challenge to another,” said Waddle. U.S. Senator Jeff Sessions, a longtime family friend and an Eagle Scout himself, gave the charge to the new Eagle. “It was really cool” to have a U.S. senator at the ceremony, Tripp said. Tripp presented Paul Hendrix, a well-known Scouter, with a mentor pin, which an Eagle Scout may present to the person he believes helped him Tripp takes a 60-mile-an-hour trip the most in his effort to attain the rank. down a 1,000-foot zip line during the Tripp has served as Senior and National Jamboree in West Virginia. Assistant Senior Patrol Leader with Troop 227.

UM MEN | Fall 2013 | 21 Tripp’s completed Eagle project provides safer footing for people using the 110-foot pier for the Mobile Sail and Power Squadron.

“Now, after getting Eagle, I’ve moved Tripp has been playing the piano into a role where I mentor the new since the age of 5 and he plans to major scouts as they come in,” he said. in music education when he attends college in a few years. His goal is to Honor student and drum major become a teacher, or a band director. Tripp is an honor student in the Tripp’s vision difficulties are the International Baccalaureate program at result of Retinopathy of Prematu- Murphy High School, where he plays rity, diagnosed when he was only one the French horn and marches with the month old. Surgery preserved some of Mighty Marching Panthers band. This his vision, but about two years ago, a fall, he will be their drum major. complete retinal detachment caused his He copes with his blindness by find- vision to deteriorate. A major surgery ing ways to work around it. “I do the in 2011 repaired much of the damage. same things everybody else does, but I Now he waits for a lens implant “when go about them differently. In the time the time is right”, to restore vision. Every that you take to think about all the rea- three months, the family drives to Miami sons you can’t do something, you could for checkups and consideration of future have found a way to do it.” surgeries. He usually gets around at school “I didn’t realize that I couldn’t see and elsewhere with a cane or by hitch- as well as everyone else did until I got ing a ride with his hand on a friend’s into first grade. It didn’t upset me; I just shoulder. When he marches in Mardi realized that I was different,” said Tripp. Gras parades, he and a buddy wrap a belt around their arms so that he can keep pace.

22 l Fall 2013 l UM MEN Men minister to recovering men at Freedom Farm By Ward Clayton

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — gift of bread went a long way for the 200-member UM Men orga- Anization of Mandarin UMC. The group supports downtrodden men housed at the Freedom Farm, an arm of Trinity Rescue Mission that provides housing and rehabilitation in Jacksonville. Scourged by alcohol, drugs and de- pression and separated from their families, up to 35 men work and live at the suburban Jacksonville farm. Devotions and choruses of gospel songs mix with work to From left––Trinity Freedom Farm Interim Director harvest 5,000-8,000 pounds of vegetables Chris Burkhart, former Mandarin UMC Men’s annually. The men are instructed on how Ministry President Michael Maxwell and Ed to re-enter society with a Christ-like life- Landers stand before the welcome sign at Trinity style during their six to nine-month stints. Freedom Farm in St. Johns County, Fla. Landers first delivered bread to Trinity Freedom Farm in The relationship between Mandarin 2010 and encouraged Mandarin men to help UM Men and the Freedom Farm began the organization. Photo by Ward Clayton. three years ago when Ed Landers and Dan Stanley picked up leftover bread from single-story cinderblock dormitory and a Jacksonville restaurants to deliver to the chapel. The 56-acre farm contains hogs, farm. Landers remembers the September goats, chickens, ducks and pet dogs and day in 2010 when he first carried bread to cats. rural St. Johns County farm. After travel- “I knew God was speaking to me ing a pine tree-lined dirt road for half a and that I’d been there before,” Landers mile, Landers saw a pond, a V-shaped, says. “I remember years ago coming down

The Rev. Dave Byers, former Trinity Freedom Farm director, addresses the groups during an April Mandarin men’s breakfast in Jacksonville, Fla. Photo by Robbin K. Tungett

UM MEN | Fall 2013 | 23 Trinity Freedom Farm participants sing during the men’s breakfast. Photo by Robbin K. Tungett.

the road with a friend who was taking uniform supplier Cintas and a member of a young man there who had an alcohol Mandarin UM Men, provided shirts and problem. I knew then exactly what the pants to Freedom Farm residents, and Freedom Farm was. It grabbed me by the Steve Fullerton, manager of a Jacksonville heart. I said I’ve got to bring this to the Panera Bread that donated bread, offered guys in the men’s ministry.” furniture to the farm when the store was The bread mission quickly developed remodeled. sturdy roots of support led by Michael In addition, four Freedom Farm Maxwell, then president of the Mandarin participants helped paint youth Sunday men’s group. “We are the hands and feet school rooms, and some of them helped of Christ when we work with the Trinity work a Thanksgiving “free sale.” One of Freedom Farm,” says Maxwell. “We are the Freedom Farm volunteers, a veteran of blessed by the progress they make.” Operation Desert Storm, said the free sale Now led by President Bruce helped clothe his 10 children. Seidner, the men sponsor an annual Mandarin men are now working with spring breakfast that includes more than Chris Burkhart, the new Trinity Freedom 20 Trinity Freedom Farm participants. The Farm interim director, to increase the asso- residents share their songs and testimony ciation between the farm and the church. with some 100 members of the Manda- Providing for others is coming full rin’s men’s organization. The breakfast circle, a blessing the Mandarin men and is followed by a life-skills seminar led by Trinity Freedom Farm can proudly say human resources specialists, businessmen grew from a simple loaf of bread. and financial consultants. The men hope to make this a biennual event. Ward Clayton is a com- Each year, Mandarin men also provide munications and public $600 to sponsor at least one Freedom relations professional in Farm resident. They also collect dress Jacksonville, Fla., with clothes from people attending their more than 30 years’ Easter pancake breakfast. In 2012, the experience in media and men filled a pickup truck with 300 sports public relations. He is coats, pairs of slacks, dress shirts and golf the author of Men on shirts. David Jackson, a plant manager for the Bag: The Caddies of Augusta National.

24 l Fall 2013 l UM MEN SPRINGFIELD, Tenn.— WALKER, La.— Church celebrates Christmas in July Men work with local food bank Members of Palestine UMC celebrated Each month, men of Faith Crossing UMC Christmas in July as they gave75 copies team up with the Food Bank of Greater of Strength for Service to God and Com- Baton Rouge to distribute surplus food, munity to first responders in Nashville. paper products and other items to under- The 70-member congregation collected served members of the community. The $500 over two Sundays to purchase the men unload truckloads of goods and co- books. ordinate distributions to some 350 people. The men also sponsor a jambalaya-dinner- and-talent show to provide financial support for youth mission trips.

From left: Kevin Smith, a member of Pales- tine UMC, joins Fire Chief Jimmy Hamill, Fire Sergeant Don Pulley, Pastor Diane Coppock, Springfield Mayor Billy Paul Carneal, and Chief of Police David Thompson in the presenta- Gene Stephens (left) and Mike Gatlin, mem- tion of 75 copies of daily devotions for first bers of Faith Crossing UMC, unload gallons of responders in the Springfield area. sweet tea to be distributed by a Baton Rouge food bank.

UM MEN | Fall 2013 | 25 COCHISE COUNTY, Ariz.— BARNARDSVILLE, N.C.— Scouting coordinator presents awards to Church sponsors study program for eight youngsters special-needs Scout Jim Larsen, scouting coordinator for Venture Crew 891 and Barnardsville Cochise County in the Desert Southwest UMC sponsored a God and Family Annual Conference, presented God and program for special-needs Scouts. Three Family Awards to eight youth. The cur- Scouts completed the program and riculum is designed to help children in received Programs of Religious Activities grades 4 and 5 understand God’s role in with Youth (PRAY) awards. healthy families. April Tucker received an adult Cross and Flame Award at the same ceremony.

“These guys have learned that they can accomplish most things together,” said Tim Buckner. “Their view of spiritual matters is both refreshingly simple and full of compassion.” For their service project, the boys weed- LINDEN, Mich.— ed flower beds at an elementary school, District hosts meeting at high school planted three azaleas and installed two UM men of the Crossroads District bluebird houses at the church. hosted their sixth annual men’s gathering at the Lake Fenton High School. One AIKEN, S.C.— hundred and eighty men and boys from Men take swings for handicap ramps Genesee County heard singing by the UM men of St. John’s UMC hold an an- Stronghold Quartet and a sermon by the nual golf tournament to raise funds for Rev. Dale Freed, a Wesleyan evangelist. Jack Meeks Memorial Wheelchair Ramp Ministry. The ministry builds between 18-20 ramps each year for local residents, regardless of church affiliation. Each ramp costs $700. Jack Meeks led the ministry for six years, and the ministry was named in his honor after he died in 2009.

FORT WORTH, Texas — Dinner raises funds for West, Texas The Stronghold Quartet entertains the A dinner provided by men’s and wom- district gathering en’s organizations of Genesis UMC celebrated the ministries of the Fort Worth

26 l Fall 2013 l UM MEN United Community Center, a UM center “In the past I could attend a Christian to serve and empower those in need. chapel with U.S. troops, but I am now Contributions from the 170 guests were with Muslim companies that don’t allow donated to West, Texas, following the ex- any Christian fellowship,” says Fred. “This plosion of a fertilizer plant in that town. leaves me to read Strength for Service on my own.”

BRENHAM, Texas— Hanke meets with former pastor Thirty-five years ago, Gil Hanke was a member of First UMC of Brenham, Texas, when the pastor, Sam Duree, talked him into going on a mission trip. That was the beginning of a lifetime of mission trips, including 25 to Haiti where he provided From left: John Gibson, Vint Boston, Rudy hearing aids for children, and he occa- Starling, Mike Nipper, Bob Howse, Troy Chap- sionally worked on construction projects. man and Glen Estes serve as cooks. Sam and his wife, Beverly, retired in Brenham and Hanke was invited to speak ROCKFORD, Ill— to an all-church May 23 dinner sponsored Men give $16,500 to alleviate hunger by UM Men where he renewed his friend- During the open ceremonies of a Rock- ship with the couple. ford Aviators baseball game, Rockford District UM Men presented a check for $16,500 to the Society of Saint Andrew Meals for Millions program and four local food pantries. The money was raised during the “Harmony for Hunger” concert in April.

BAGDAD, Iraq— Gil Hanke speaks to an all-church gathering Ugandan reads Strength for Service at First UMC in Brenham, Texas, his former in Iraq church home. Fred Mugisha, a native of Uganda, has been reading CAMDEN, Maine— Strength for Men compete for best tie Service to God and Men and boys competed for a best-tie Country for the last award on a Men-of-Faith Sunday at John three years. “It has Street UMC. Competitors provided a fe- changed my life,” male panel with reasons why they should he says. be declared the winner. Fred used to work The church provided ties to those who with a private com- showed up without one for the June pany that served celebration. U.S. troops before they departed the country. He now works with a company serving Iraqi troops.

UM MEN | Fall 2013 | 27 JACKSON, Miss.— PICKENS, S.C.— Men reminded to ‘man up’ Men build storage area Donald Beard, president of Missis- UM Men of Porter’s Chapel and Mount sippi Conference UM Men, provides free Bethel UMC constructed a food storage “man-up” coins to chartered UM groups. area for Asbury Hills Camp and Retreat Center. The additional storage saves dollars for the center by reducing the number of food deliveries. The Rev. Dick Waldrep, pastor, says this is the first of several planned projects.

Beard explains that the coins “represent your commitment to your men’s group, your church and most importantly, your decision to ‘man up’ for Jesus Christ.” He urges men to carry the coins at all times.

MERIDIAN, Miss.— Fourteen years of ramp building An ecumenical team in the Meridian LAKE MARY, Fla.— District has built 860 handicapped ramps Men support Wounded Warrior project and over the last 14 years. There are 25 on a firefighters waiting list. In June, UM men and Scouts of Grace A group meets in the Kemper County UMC shucked and cooked corn donated workshop of Jerry Fox on Mondays to con- by Sanford Produce. Rill Rape cooked struct parts of the ramp. Later in the week, beans and hot dogs and church women the team completes the ramp on site. provided desserts. Sales from the effort resulted in $285 for the Wounded War- When a ramp is no longer needed, the rior Project and the troop. team recycles the building materials. Last March, men from Grace UMC hon-

ored firefighters at a pulled-pork meal. St. Lucie Firefighter Tommy Neiman, author of Sirens for the Cross, spoke about firefighters who show the strength of Christ. Firefighters were later given copies of Neiman’s book.

ALLENTOWN, Pa.— Some 900 attend UM Day at amusement park UM Men of Eastern Pennsylvania Confer- Obie Leggett, the owner of a new ramp, ence received $2,700 to support various joins with volunteers. mission projects from their UM Day at Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom. “The weather was perfect and the lines

28 l Fall 2013 l UM MEN “Even the course managers were floored by what God did and have asked us to come back,” said Cyr.

PRESCOTT, Ariz. — Commission sends Strength for Service books to firefighters After an Arizona wildfire killed 19 of the for the rides were very short,” said Ross 20 members of the Hotshot Crew, the Brightwell, conference president. “We Commission on UM Men sent 100 cop- had 900 who used UMC coupons, up ies of Strength for Service to God and from 606 last year.” Community, to their families and other first responders in the city. The men received $3 from each coupon used. Doug Wright, scouting coordinator for the Desert Southwest Conference, coor- “The best part of the day was visiting dinated the effort. with the United Methodists who came by our UM booth, specifically our youth According to the “Granite Mountain groups, families and pastors,” said Interagency Hotshot Crew” website, Brightwell. Bishop Peggy Johnson and their members’ “common bond” is “our Southwest District UM Men President love of hard work and arduous adven- Derrick Gutierrez helped in the booth. ture. We believe in rigorous physical and mental training, which allows us to perform at the optimum level in any FT. WORTH, Texas — location and under any circumstances.” Golf tournament raises over $5,000 for charity There are 1,082,500 firefighters in the Men of Alliance UMC set a lofty goal for U.S.; 278,300 are career and 804,200 their first golf tournament. They wanted are volunteer. The Strength for Service to recruit 48 players to raise $3,000 for team of the commission hopes to “Food for the Soul” in Teller, Texas. provide copies of the book of daily devotions to each one.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. — Church provides books for first responders Haven Heights UMC provided funds for 50 copies of Strength for Service to God and Country to be sent to U.S. service men and women, and the congregation purchased 50 copies of Strength for Service to God and Community to give to police officers, fire fighters and “In the end, we had 63 golfers (only emergency medical technicians in the 14 golfers were from our church) and Pittsburgh area. 15 volunteers,” said Michael Cyr. “We raised $5,445.93 for Food for the Soul. This amount will provide weekend food for the entire school year for approximately 60 students. UM MEN | Fall 2013 | 29 WESTLAKE, Ohio AMBLER, Pa.— Waffle breakfast raises $1,000 Christian fellowship wins softball The annual Palm Sunday waffle breakfast tournament sponsored by UM Men of Westlake UMC New Hanover UMC won the 21st annual raised over $1,000. They gave $200 each UM Men softball tournament, but Ross to the Society of Saint Andrew and Stop Brightwell, president of Eastern Pennsyl- Hunger Now. The balance was given to vania Conference UM Men, said Christian other UM care facilities. fellowship was the real winner of the day of competition between the nine partici- NATCHITOCHES, La.— pating teams. Melons for food pantries UM Men of Natchitoches First UMC have annually provided sweet potatoes for area food pantries. This year, Troy Pennington, a UM in Grapeland, Texas, generously gave 6,000 pounds of watermelons for the Robeline, La., Food Pantry. Coy Birdwell said this service came from a UM to UM Men to those in need.

New Hanover UMC softball team

Send news of your men’s organization to Rich Peck ([email protected]). Stanley Pennington, Troy Pennington, and LaWanda Pennington, members of First UMC in Grapeland, Texas, join Loye Hortman and Coy Birdwell of First UMC, Natchitoches.

humor Mom and Dad were taking 12-year- Israelites landing craft to old Alex home from Sunday school. cross the Red Sea and “What did you learn today,” asked then sent a B2 to bomb Mom. the pursuing Egyptian “We learned about how Moses deliv- army.” ered the Israelites from Egypt.” “That’s not what your “And how did they do that? “ teacher really taught is it, “Well,” stammered Alex. “Moses Alex?” sent special forces to break down the “No, but you’d never believe me if I prison wall along with jet fighters to told you what she really said.” provide air protection. He then gave

30 l Fall 2013 l UM MEN October/November/December 2013 Volume 49, No. 4

Men gain leadership skills at National Gathering

NASHVILLE–– Wilson had ome 200 men crowded into Vince 19 boys and four Gil Room at the Curb Event Center girls in her 2013 Sof Belmont University for men’s confirmation class ministry leader training. at her previous Greg Arnold, a deployed staff member church in LaSalle, of the General Commission on UM Ill. Men, spoke about “the power of the third “You may feel question.” awkward talking He notes all skilled interviewers ask about sex, but do two softball questions: it anyway,” said The Rev. Dr. Jennifer “How you doing?” Wilson. Wilson addresses the “How’s work?” The pastor workshop on men’s They then ask the real question: is featured in ministry. How are you, really? or “Where are “Amazing Grace: you?” A Church for Men,” a 14-minute film Most men want to tell you how they that shows how the church increased in are doing, but no one is asking,” said membership by focusing on men and Arnold. boys. “We’re seeing lives really changed: The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Wilson, pastor marriages being saved, families being of Wheatland Salem UMC, Naperville, stronger, men being leaders, fathers being Ill., told the seminar that if they want to leaders,” says Wilson reach boys they will have to talk about three things: “dating, sex and sports.”

Editor: Rich Peck Please send MensNews submissions to: Rich Peck 1000 17th Ave. S. • Nashville, TN 37212 [email protected] UM Men Awards Christian Nygaard creation of the Men honor former conference president 14-year-old WESLEY, Iowa—UM Men of the Iowa An- district pastor- nual Conference honored Christian Nygaard appreciation with a life membership. The active church- dinners, and man has served as a local president, a district his election to president and a conference president. He four Gen- currently serves as president of the North eral Confer- Central District UM Men. ences and six Jurisdictional Nygaard has been active in Walk to Emmaus Conferences. and currently serves on the Iowa Conference Board of Pensions. The conference espe- Will Laesch’ cially noted his Men give life membership to president leadership in Robert Powell addresses the the distribution ROCKFORD, Ill.––Will Laesch, president Alabama West Florida of Faith-Sharing of the UM Men at Grace UMC, received a Annual Conference. New Testaments life membership for his willingness to cook and his work- and his generosity to UM Men. shops designed An executive with the Rockford Health to help men win others to Christ. Department, Laesch also chaired the Grace A former owner of three automobile parts Finance Committee. stores, Powell now serves as development as- “He is an excellent example of witnessing sociate for the UM Children’s Home. for Jesus Christ through acts of compas- “I pray that I can live up to the task of sion, justice, worship, and devotion under being like Jesus and Dr. Harry Denman,” the guidance of the Holy Spirit,” said Steve said Powell. “Dr. Denman was the greatest Nailor, a long-time leader of UM Men. “He evangelist ever in our church. He was a man certainly inspires others to serve and become of one message––the love of Jesus Christ.” disciples of Jesus Christ.”

The Rev. William Freeman Robert Powell Tennessee Conference official inducted Former president receives Harry into John Wesley Society Denman Award BRENTWOOD, Tenn.––The Rev. Wil- MOBILE, Ala.––The Alabama-West Florida liam (Bill) Freeman, director of information Conference presented Robert Powell, former technology for the Tennessee Annual Con- president of the National Association of ference, was inducted into the John Wesley Conference Presidents and former president Society during an awards banquet in June. of the UM Men Foundation, with the Harry Denman Evangelism award. A graduate of Asbury Theological Semi- nary and a clergy member of the East Ohio The award honors people for outstanding Annual Conference, Freeman served for efforts in Christian Evangelism. 20-years in various capacities for the UM The conference noted Powell’s role as district Publishing House. Beginning as a represen- director of Lay-Speaking Ministries, the tative of Cincinnati and Dayton Cokesbury

32 stores, he was promoted to the post of received a life membership in UM Men dur- regional manager. He was later named sales ing a June awards ceremony at Brentwood manager of the new Electronic Publishing UMC. Office where he developed the first electronic A graduate of Vanderbilt Divinity School, versions of the UM Hymnal, the Book of Collett was ordained elder in 1974 and Discipline and the Book of Worship. In 1994, served six UM congregations before being he was named national director of Church named to the cabinet in 2007. Following Management Systems and Software Sales. the June conference session, he was named Freeman is a member of the Tennessee executive assistant to the bishop. Conference UM Men executive team. He is an eight-time delegate to Jurisdictional Conference and a two-time delegate to Gen- eral Conference. He chairs the McKendree Village Foundation.

Lee White and Warren Wright Leaders of Virginia church named life members HARDYVILLE, Va.––Lee White, chair of the Clarksbury UMC Council, and Warren Wright, lay leader of the congregation, were named life members of UM Men. The Rev. Eric Vaudt praised White for his baking skills and maintenance work at Heart The Rev. William Freeman Havens. “If there is any type of event at the church, he will be there to serve in whatever The Rev. John Collett Jr. way he can,” says Vaudt. Superintendent named life member Wright serves as lay leader and president of BRENTWOOD, Tenn.–The Rev. John UM Men, and he also works with special Collett, superintendent of the Nashville Dis- needs adults at a Heart Havens home. “He trict of the Tennessee Annual Conference, leads a men’s Bible study and is a certified lay speaker,” says Vaudt. “He also accompa- nies me in taking Holy Communion to our home-bound members.” “A lot of work is accomplished in this church due to the efforts of these two men,” Vaudt concludes.

Wayne Barnhardt Cold Springs honors hot cook CONCORD, N.C.––UM Men of Cold From left: Robert Cate, Ingram Howard, John Springs UMC presented Wayne Barnhardt Collett, Cliff Steger, Gil Hanke and Dr. Bill with a life membership. He was honored Bowen participate in the awards service at for cooking eggs and cleaning up during Tennessee Conference.

33 monthly breakfasts, stirring stew and making Rudy Gomez slaw for an annual barbecue, and manning the Men honor former conference president stove at a fair booth. DALLAS, Texas––Rudy Gomez, former A member of several church boards, he also president of Oklahoma Indian Missionary serves as an usher on Sundays. Conference UM Men, was inducted into the John Wesley Society in June 2012. A member Neil Oliver of the Dallas Indian UMC and an adult Sun- Men honor 43-year member of UM Men day school teacher, he was named lay speaker KNOXVILLE, Tenn.––Men of Middlebrook emeritus by the Lay Speaking Ministries, Pike UMC presented Neil Oliver with a Metro District, North Texas Conference. He lifetime membership for 43 years of service to has served as a scoutmaster and attended the UM Men, including a term as president. Philmont Wood Badge training. A former A member of the Army National Guard member of the General Commission on UM from 1941-45, Oliver has served the church Men, he attended his seventh National Gath- in many capacities including a confirmation ering in July. mentor, FISH pantry and the Chancel and Early Risers choirs. Jay Hinkley “We are extremely proud of Neil Oliver and Carl Young inducts former president his service to the UM Men and church,” said into John Wesley Society Mark Giles, president of Middlebrook Pike NASHVILLE, Tenn.––During a John Wesley UM Men. Fellows dinner at the National Gathering, Carl Young surprised Jay Hinkley by induct- ing him into the John Wesley Society. Hinkley served for four years as president of UM Men in the Louisiana Annual Conference. Young said he once roomed with Hinkley while on a mission trip.

Mark Giles (right) presents a life membership certificate to Neil Oliver.

Carl Young (right) presents a John Wesley Society Award to Jay Hinkley.

34 Dr. Peter Thoms Men honor 30-year veteran of men’s ministry NASHVILLE, Tenn.––Dr. Peter Thoms, a legacy member of UM Men, who has been involved with men’s ministry for 30 years, was inducted into the John Wesley Society during a July 12 John Wesley fellows dinner at Belmont University. “What I’ve done is a pittance for the Lord.” Gil Hanke (right) presents a John Wesley said the family physician from Flint, Mich. Society Award to Dr. Peter Thoms, a graduate of the University of Michigan Medical School.

GCUMM by the numbers in 2013

14 annual conferences maintained 25,000 pounds of sweet potatoes or increase the number of chartered were bagged in 90 minutes at the Na- organizations tional Gathering

17 annual conferences maintained or $25,185 raised by UM Men for the increased the number of EMS members Upper Room Prayer Center in 2012 (Every Man Shares in Evangelism, Mission and Spiritual Life). 30,000 Scouts spent five days in 350 sites to provide 300,000 volunteer 40 men now serving as men’s ministry service hours for local projects, including specialists Stop Hunger Now.

210 men and women now serving as $35,000 raised by UM Men to scouting ministry specialists purchase a bus for UM mission work in Vietnam 800 men and women were trained and inspired at the 11th National Gath- 90,759 prayers answered by the Up- ering per Room Prayer Line in six months

1,400 copies of Strength for Service $179,800 raised by UM Men for to God and Community were given to Meals for Millions Scouts at the National Jamboree 470,000 copies of Strength for 1,500 copies of Strength for Service Service to God and Country have now to God and Community were given to been distributed, primarily to U.S. service first responders in Boston, Mass., New- men and women. town, Conn., West, Texas, and Nashville.

17,000 Stop Hunger Now meals were prepared at the National Gathering

35 Our local church in Texas did an exhaustive search looking for a bus, and we continue to be blessed by the bus we bought from Carpenter Bus Sales. Because of the excellent care they demonstrated to our church, I have recommended them to other churches and institutions, and I recommend them to you. Volume 49, No. 4 October/November/December 2013

UMC has huge presence at the BSA National Jamboree By Larry Coppock to the tent received MOUNT HOPE, W.Va.–– 3,000 Stop Hunger he UMC provided vital lay and clergy leaders Now patches. Tfor the July 15-24 National Jamboree at the Special thanks to Summit Bechtel Reserve. Ken Todd and Keith The 10-day event included five days of Smith who served as public service, a Protestant worship service, a vice chairmen of the UMC Communion Service, and information at exhibit, and to the Rev. Scout Jamboree patch the Faith and Beliefs exhibit area. Steve Hickle who led the Stop Hunger Now area Approximately 30,000 Boy Scouts and and performed yeoman’s service. 7,000 leaders participated in activities like coast- ing down 500 yard zip lines, rafting the New Protestant service River Gorge, patch trading, and visiting the Faith The Rev. Dr. Bruce Reed preached at the and Beliefs exhibit area. July 21 Protestant worship service. An elder in the West Virginia Conference, Reed retired from active duty as the state chaplain for the West Virginia National Guard and is currently the director of state family programs for the guard. He encouraged more than 10,000 Scouts of all Protestant denominations to spread the gospel. The service included a praise band from Morris Memorial UMC, Charleston, W.Va. The cross used in the 2010 UMC Jamboree service was used in both the Protestant and Roman Catholic services. The Rev. Greg Godwin coordinated the Protestant service.

The 2013 BSA Jamboree at The Summit

Faith and Beliefs More than 20 volunteer UM leaders served in the 20-by-40-foot tent housing information about scouting ministry specialists, Stop Hunger Now, the 2014 UM Scouters workshop at Philmont, and the Strength for Service to God and Community book of daily devotions for first responders. Twelve scouting ministry specialists pro- Heavy rain soaked 1,500 Scouts attending the Protes- vided information to Scout leaders, and visitors tant worship services at the 2013 National Jamboree.

Editor: Larry Coppock Please send ScoutingNews submissions to: Larry Coppock OCYSA •1000 16th Ave. S. • Nashville, TN 37212 [email protected] The Rev. 100,000 bottles of water to the Scouts serving in Jason Fry six southern West Virginia counties. coordinated a Two Venturing units and three Scout troops UM Commu- volunteered at the UM Burlington Family Ser- nion service at vices, Inc., Beckley Campus. Scouts and leaders the Brownsea provided valuable on-site work, and they had the Island for chance to hear about the ministry at this residen- 800 Scouts tial treatment facility for troubled youth. following the “The program director and facility director Protestant were amazed by what was accomplished,” said service. West Phil Howard, coordinator of the work along Virginia Area Bishop Sandra Steiner Ball served with his brother Bill, The brothers are both Eagle as celebrant at that service. Scouts. More than 1,000 volunteer hours were Steady rain came down during both provided over two days. Popsicles were served services, but it did not dampen the spirits of the to volunteers at the end of their workdays. Greg Scouts and leaders. Godwin prepared a large banner for each Scout More than 800 copies of the Scout edition to sign along with their hand print as a testimony of Strength for Service to God and Community to their work. were distributed at the UM service. The word Overall a big thank you goes out to the 11 spread and before long all 1,400 copies were UMC pastors who served as chaplains, includ- given out to excited Scouts and leaders. ing the Revs. Jason Fry and Alan Morrison, headquarter chaplains. Special thanks also go to Five days of service 20 volunteers who manned the UMC Faith and The largest service project in West Virginia Belief exhibit for more than 10 days. included some 30,000 Scouts who spent five days in 350 sites to provide 300,000 volunteer First in West Virginia service hours for local projects including Stop Held every four years, jamborees are a Boy Hunger Now. Scouts packaged 16,000 meals Scout tradition dating from 1937. Many Boy for emergency situations in West Virginia and Scouts consider it one of the highlights of their around the world. scouting career. Red Cross volunteers distributed more than This jamboree was the first at the 10,600- acre Summit Bechtel Reserve, an old coal mine the BSA selected as its permanent home of national gatherings. The Summit replaces Fort A.P. Hill, Va., which played host to jamborees from 1981 to 2010. Some called this the most physically demanding jamboree. Obese Scouts were not allowed to attend due to rigorous health standards. For the first time, hundreds of girls who are members of Venturing crews also attended. The Summit will host a high-adventure camp next year, and the Jamboree will return in Gil Hanke, Carl Hanke, and Larry Coppock hang 2017. The World Jamboree will be held there in out at the UMC exhibit area. Carl is a district Scout 2019. executive in the East Texas Council and son of Gil.

38 UM Men honor creator of 9-11 memorial NASHVILLE, Tenn.–– includes 90 hen Jeff Cox, was a 15-year old Boy Scout hand-drawn Win Windermere, Fla., people kept telling colored tiles him to dream big. that encircle In 2009, he was looking for an Eagle project the beam. when the idea of a 9-11 memorial was mentioned Each tile has at a summer Scout camp. He was only 7 years an image old on 9-11 and lived 1,500 miles away from the representing Gil Hanke (left) and Larry Coppock tragedy, but he was enthusiastic about the idea. the homelands present Jeff with a Good Samaritan He drew a proposed design of the monument of the nearly Award during the National Gathering on a paper napkin at an ice cream shop with a 3,000 victims. of UM Men. Photo by Bob Vogt newly found friend, Sterling Folk, who thought it “It was was a great idea too. just meant to be,” said Jeff. Steel from the World Trade Center Dedicated in February, 2010, the monument Jeff’s dream received a jump start when he now sits next to the Windermere library as a place learned that he could obtain a steel beam from for meditation and a site for 9-11 anniversary the ruins of the World Trade Center. Windermere services. Mayor Gary Bruhn and Jeff wrote a letter to the Some 1,300 people attended the unveiling N.Y./N.J. Port Authority and dedication ceremony. The service included to assure them that the music, prayers, a motorcycle parade by the Patriot twisted 650-pound steel Guard Riders, and a flyover at the end of the Na- beam would go towards tional Anthem. The Rev. Dr. Bill Barnes, pastor of St. Luke’s UMC in Orlando, gave the benediction. a memorial. They had to wait months as the steel National honors was still considered part of Jeff was awarded the Glenn and Melinda a crime scene. Adams Award of the National Eagle Scout Service “I thought we were Project. His project was selected from 55,000 going to have to drive to submissions. New York to pick up the Jeff’s monument serves Jeff is also a founding member of the Inter- as the gathering place beam using my pickup national Messengers of Peace, and at age 16 he was for anniversaries of the truck,” said Jeff. “But then 2001 attack upon the named Orange County’s Citizen of the Year. Mom suggested I go online World Trade Center Jeff received a Good Samaritan Award, the and call some of the big and the Pentagon. A highest youth award presented by UM Men, dur- shipping companies. UPS wreath was placed at ing the 2013 National Gathering. Freight stepped up to trans- the 2012 service by “I’ve been amazed at the number of people port the metal at no charge Mayor Gary Bruhn. who have helped make my dream come true,” from the Port Authority to said Jeff. “Thanks to UPS, the Port Authority, the Florida.” town of Windermere, Mayor Gary Bruhn, Sterling First memorial in Florida Folk, and especially Scout Troop 6 which meets at With a tenacious spirit, 2,000 volunteer St. Luke’s UMC; they all helped make this dream hours, and the support of the town council, Jeff’s a reality. plans unfolded into the first official World Trade See video of Jeff and the memorial: http:// Center memorial in Florida. The monument www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hdpb8tPNDF0.

39 Scouting Awards

Greg Godwin mission on UM Scout leader receives Marine Corps Men. Award “Doug is very GRAPEVINE, Texas–– active with the he Rev. Greg Godwin, pastor of Con- Catalina Council Tcord UMC in Athens, W.Va., received BSA where he sits a Commu- on the executive nity Service board and chairs Award from the endowment the Marine committee,” said Corps League Chuck Moyer, during a another scouting May national ministry specialist Doug Wright conducts a board meet- in the conference. ing of the vesper service for 56 boys Boy Scouts of Wright worked at Camp Lawton, atop America. with Larry Cop- Mt. Lemmon near Tucson. pock to provide Participants in the June Godwin, 100 copies of 30 service prayed for the a scouting Strength for Service 19 firefighters who died on ministry to God and Com- the same day at the Yarnell specialist and munity to the Greg Godwin (left) receives the Hill fire near Prescott. a member of families of the 19 Community Service Award from the General Granite Mountain Commission David Steward, president of the Central Region Board. Albert Hotshot fire fighters killed in a June 30 on UM Men, ‘Sparky’ Duroe, a member of the forest fire. He also gave copies of the daily leads a Cub regional board, looks on. devotions to other first responders in the Scout pack, Prescott area. and served as a chaplain during the National Jamboree Wright said the award was special as “many where he coordinated the Protestant worship folks never really knew how busy I have been service. with my work with the UMC, scouting, and 4-H.” Doug Wright Conference presents Torch Award Ben Gorton TUCSON, Ariz.–– Scouting helps youth gain scholarship he Desert Southwest Conference pre- BEREA, Ky.–– Tsented a Torch Award to Doug Wright, en Gorton, a member of Venture Crew president of the Arizona 4-H Foundation B877 in Chittenango, N.Y., received the that serves over 100,000 Arizona youth. A Ethel and Ira Martin Scholarship from Berea scouting ministry specialist, Wright is scout- College. The award honors a promising stu- ing coordinator for the annual conference dent who is considering full-time ministry, and a board member of the General Com- missions or education. Ben, a member of the Berea class of 2016,

40 will have a dual ate of Kempsville major in religion High School, led 15 and English adults and fellow with a minor in Scouts from Troop theater. In apply- 417 to complete the ing for the award, project. Men of St. Ben noted his Andrews UMC are role as chaplain active supporters of of his Scout the troop. troop and his Now a freshman at experience at the Ben Gorton Virginia Military National Jamboree Matthew Powell Institute, Matthew is and the World Jamboree. He said those majoring in political experiences led to a decision to further his science. Following graduation from VMI, religious studies. he will receive a commission in the United States Navy. Richard Cherrington Scout collects 1,500 pounds of pasta Jim McCarthy WESTMINSTER, Colo.–– Church honors PRAY leader ichard Cherrington, an Eagle Scout, SHARPSBURG, Ga.–– Rpresident of an Order of the Arrow im McCarthy, a counselor for Programs chapter, a member of a high adventure crew, Jof Religious Activities with Youth the Civil Air Patrol and an active member of (PRAY) at Cokes Chapel UMC, received a the Wallace UMC youth group, received a Cross and Flame Award from the church. Good Samaritan Award. McCarthy, assistant BSA council commis- The church cited Richard for collecting sioner, received the award along with the 21 1,500 pounds of pasta in a “Scouting for young people who received religious PRAY Food” drive for a local food bank. emblems for their studies. Jim Matthew Powell McCarthy, Scout builds fence for Eagle Scout front left, project receives VIRGINIA BEACH, Va.–– the Cross atthew Powell, a member of St. and Flame MAndrews UMC, attained the rank of Award for Eagle, during a ceremony at St. Andrews his leader- UMC. ship in scouting. For his Eagle project, Matthew worked Mark Jordan, pastor at Cokes Chapel UMC, with the St. Andrews Board of Trustees and presents the award. Behind them are (from the City of Virginia Beach Department of left) Glenda McCool and Sean and Cormac Permits to construct a 180-foot fence with McCarthy, class assistants. gates at the church parsonage. The parsonage hosts social events for youth, families, and other guests. Matthew, a recent gradu-

41 Jacob William Vecchio Jim and Terri Schmitz Eagle Scout appointed to U.S. Air Kansas couple receives Torch Awards Force Academy PARSONS, Kan.–– SAINT FRANCISVILLE, La.–– im and Terri Schmitz, members of Wes- acob Vecchio, 18, is attending the U.S. Jley UMC, received Torch Awards during JAir Force Academy in Colorado Springs a June 2 celebration. following his nomination by U.S. Congress- A 28-year scouting veteran and a member man Bill Cassidy. of the Order of the Arrow, Jim has served Jacob attained the rank of Eagle Scout at age as adviser of a Venture Crew, an assistant 16. He earned the Webelos Arrow of Light scoutmaster, scoutmaster, and charter orga- award, the Webelos Super Achiever award, nization representative. the Order of the Arrow Brotherhood, 37 Terri was a Girl Scout leader for her Boy Scout merit badges, the post of Junior daughter’s troop in the 1980s. She now Assistant Scoutmaster, the Bronze, Gold, helps with her two granddaughters’ troops. and Silver Eagle Scout Palm awards, the She has served as a board member of both Philmont Scout Ranch Arrowhead award, Bluestem and Kansas Heartland Councils the Duty to God award, and the Wilderness and is currently the secretary for the Heart- award. land Council. She received “Thanks” and He has backpacked the Wind River Range, “Thanks II” badges for her service as a Girl Wyo., camped along the Appalachian Trail, Scout volunteer. hiked the Italian Amalfi coast, climbed to the summit of 14,255-foot Longs Peak in Colorado, completed a half marathon in Georgia, skied the Swiss Alps, explored Ten- nessee caves, climbed cliffs in the Appala- chian and Rocky Mountain ranges, white- water rafted in North Carolina and Georgia, and served as a guide on a 65-mile, 10-day backpacking trek in the rugged Sangre de Cristo Mountain range at the Philmont Scout Ranch, N.M.

Jim and Terri Schmitz

PLAN TO ATTEND National Scout Training June 22-28, 2014. Philmont Training Center Call Marc Stowe Jacob reaches the summit of 11,742-foot Mount Phillips at the Philmont Scout Ranch in New (615-620-7262) Mexico for details

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